To quote: The worldwide Web is abuzz with another PlayStation 3 rumor. This one claims that PS3 Firmware 3.0 will be out by Christmas and bring a complete overhaul in the vein of the new Xbox Experience.

The rumor says you can expect background patch downloading, a reputation system, and more.

Sony says that's B.S. as follows:

"These rumors are completely untrue, nothing has been announced or confirmed for upcoming PlayStation firmware, and this is just wild speculation," said Jennifer Clark, director of SCEA product publicity.

297w ago - Although it is still some time away (Super_Secretpredicts PS3 Firmware 3.0 won't be out during the summer, but before the holidays) the folks at VG247 (linked above) have uncovered some additional details on it.

To quote: The software upgrade has been described to us as "a huge overhaul", and was compared to NXE "in some respects".

The before-rumored reputation system will be included. We were told that, "A reputation system in which users will be able to evaluate each other will be provided for... game applications.

"There will be a new API available to so the user can... allow users and also obtain users' reputation."

A "grief reporting system" will be included in the update, allowing gamers to take screens of offensive players and submit them to Sony. Apparently this is going to be similar to the LBP system, and is likely to include a text input.

Firmware 3.0 will allow patches will be downloaded in the background, meaning you'll no longer have to sit staring at the screen while Random Shooter updates itself with a 500Mb fix.

There's more. Simultaneous HDMI and digital optical outputting will be included in the...

Since inception, the PS3 has prioritized devices plugged into the front of the console... meaning if you leave your Guitar Hero, Buzz, or Rock Band 'dongles' plugged in your Wireless controller is not number one. However, as of PS3 Firmware Update 2.80 the Wireless controller does gets assigned to number one.

Earlier today PlayStation Network Operations Director Eric Lempel announced that PS3 Firmware 2.80 Update was coming, and it's now live to download!

Here is what he had to say about it, to quote:

Hello, I just wanted to provide everyone with a head's up that the next PLAYSTATION 3 system software update (v2.80) will be coming soon. The playback quality of some PLAYSTATION 3 format software has been improved.